BREAKING: NCAA Fines Texas Head Coach Steve Sarkisian $25,000 for Sideline Outburst in Ohio State Game
Austin, TX — The NCAA has fined Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian $25,000 and issued a formal warning following a heated outburst during Saturday’s game against the Ohio State Buckeyes. The incident, which occurred in the third quarter, involved Sarkisian shouting an explicit phrase — “f*** you” — three times in the direction of an official after a controversial personal foul was called against quarterback Will Howard.
The penalty came after a key third-down scramble by Howard was negated by a 15-yard personal foul for unsportsmanlike conduct. The call, which many Longhorns fans and analysts have already described as “questionable” and “game-changing,” triggered an emotional reaction from Sarkisian, who could be seen yelling at the sideline official before being restrained by assistant coaches.
Multiple broadcasts captured the moment, with Sarkisian clearly shouting the expletive repeatedly. The video quickly circulated online, sparking a wave of reactions from fans, pundits, and former players. Some defended Sarkisian’s passion in the heat of a tightly contested top-10 matchup, while others criticized the lack of composure expected from a high-profile head coach on a national stage.
In a statement released Sunday morning, the NCAA said, “Coach Sarkisian’s conduct on the sideline violated the standards of sportsmanship and behavior that the NCAA expects of all participants. While we recognize the intensity of competition, actions that disrespect game officials or compromise the integrity of the game will not be tolerated.”
The University of Texas also released a brief comment, acknowledging the fine and stating that the matter is being addressed internally. “We are aware of the NCAA’s disciplinary action involving Coach Sarkisian. We respect the decision and are working with Coach to ensure that emotions are channeled appropriately in future situations.”
Sarkisian has not publicly commented on the incident as of Sunday evening, but sources close to the program suggest he is expected to issue an apology early this week during his regular press conference. While the fine itself is relatively minor for a head coach in a major program, the NCAA warning adds an element of pressure, as any future incidents may result in harsher penalties, including potential suspensions.
This flare-up comes at a pivotal point in Texas’s season. The Longhorns are currently ranked No. 5 in the AP Top 25 and are vying for a College Football Playoff berth. The Ohio State matchup, which ended in a narrow 27-24 loss for Texas, was billed as a potential playoff preview. However, the aftermath has now shifted focus from on-field performance to sideline behavior.
While emotions run high in college football, especially in marquee matchups, Sarkisian’s reaction underscores the fine line coaches must walk between fiery leadership and unacceptable conduct. As the Longhorns push toward a postseason run, all eyes will be on Sarkisian — not just for his play-calling, but for his composure.
